PPP3: Summative Evaluation

As the final PPP module after these three years, this marks my progression from full time education to the world of professional practice. Throughout the module I have continued to investigate my practice and how it relates to professional careers.

I have continued to establish my web presence, including a website and the various social media outposts. The site acts as a central hub with a gallery that may be regularly updated with recent work. An online presence is most successful when updated regularly, this has proved difficult as I have frequently prioritised my academic documentation. Although I feel as though recent engagement has been much better. The website itself requires some improvements, the addition of a sticky menu would allow users to easily access links when scrolling down, but otherwise I feel as though the design is simple enough and does not distract from the imagery.
I often use Facebook and Instagram to upload imagery, and can extrapolate how well work is recieved based on the response. Both platforms have around 100 followers, and many of those are admittedly relations and friends. The Facebook page did indeed lead to the Redman Design commision, so that is a good mark of success. I realise however that I must work harder to engage with my audience and attaract more visitors to the website.

The current branding reflects a more stripped back almost corporate aesthetic, this again allows for a focus on the contained imagery. The logo has developed from a convoluted design into a far more appropriate icon, admittedly there is potential for further simplification. The promotional pack is an A5 wallet that may include postcards, business cards, CVs etc. It is small enough to mail out to any clients or agents that I have a specific interest in. I have not mailed the pack out to any practitioners, which I would suggest has been a detriment.

I have continued to contact practitioners, and their responses have informed my development. Combined with talks from visiting professionals I have gained a much better understanding of what I can expect from the illustrator profession. My contact with Redman Design has led to frequent commissions for museums, and has introduced me to the informative design industry. Working on the Engineering Project also made me further explore the role of illustration as a teaching material.

Towards the end of the year I was elected as the President of the Student Union. This is a full-time paid job, running the Union at Leeds College of Art. Having already deligated at the NUS Conference, I am aware that is will be a grand task, and it will be a challange for me. I accept however, that I will enjoy being president and I welcome the opportunity to improve as a professional. The role seems like the natural progression from my work as a an ambassador, and my small ongoing work with the union.

My engagement to the module has been good, I feel more confident as a practitioner and generally feel far more informed. I have established a brand and engaged with clients in a professional manner. Were I to repeat the module, I would certainly contact more practitioners, publishers, agents and art directors, although this is certainly an ongoing investigation and will continue after graduation. I would have also liked to focus more of my PPP around education and public sector, as this seems like the inevitable direction of my profession. I understand however, that my role as President will
 develop my relationship with education, and give me a great insight into the internal workings of FE and HE education.